Become a patron
As a Ballenberg patron, you will help to both shape the present and secure the future of Switzerland's unique open-air museum. You can become a patron of the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum for as little as CHF 5 per month.
Ballenberg — an unforgettable experience
Immerse yourself in the stories of over 100 historic houses, learn about traditional crafts, visit exciting exhibitions and events and make friends with over 200 farm animals at Ballenberg. There are plenty of hands-on activities for everyone who likes to get involved and try things out for themselves.
Ballenberg — your open-air museum in Switzerland
As society continues to evolve, the cultural heritage of rural Switzerland with its trades and crafts is disappearing. The Ballenberg Open-Air Museum strives to preserve this valuable part of the Swiss identity and keep it alive. As a Ballenberg patron, you will help to both shape the present and secure the future of Switzerland's unique open-air museum. There is no better place to experience the richness of rural tradition and Swiss history.
With your help, we maintain and care for over 100 historic listed buildings and their gardens, fields, meadows and pastures. Children and adults can come and discover life and work in rural Switzerland from the 14th to the 19th centuries. The expansive museum grounds allow visitors to experience various themed exhibitions, more than 30 crafts, a program of changing events and over 200 farm animals.
Your contribution
Your support helps to preserve the valuable cultural heritage and knowledge associated with agriculture, crafts and trades at the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum, and makes an important contribution to the preservation of over 100 historic buildings on the site.
Thanks to your help, our exhibitions, events and courses can give children and adults a multi-sensory experience of the history, lives and work of people in rural Switzerland.
As a thank-you from us, you will receive:
- A season pass pass to the Open-Air Museum
- Invitation to the annual patrons' event
- Ballenberg patrons' magazine
- Ballenberg calendar
Fill in the form below and we will send you all the documents relating to Ballenberg patronage.
Ballenberg
Swiss Open-Air Museum
Museumsstrasse 100
CH-3858 Hofstetten bei Brienz
Opening hours
10 April to 2 November 2025
10 am to 5 pm daily
Annual holiday from 20 December 2024 to 5 January 2025
